The narrative follows the divergent paths of two brothers, David and Jack Meredith, as they navigate the shifting social and moral landscapes of suburban Melbourne across several decades. David, the younger and more introspective brother, pursues a career in journalism and seeks worldly success, while Jack embodies the archetype of the rugged, honest Australian battler. Their relationship is strained by their conflicting values and the pressures of a changing nation, particularly during the interwar years and the onset of World War II. The story is told through David's first-person perspective, providing an intimate look at his internal struggle to reconcile his own ambitions with the perceived authenticity of his brother's life.

This work is widely regarded as a cornerstone of Australian literature, frequently cited for its incisive critique of national identity and the myth of the common man. Readers and critics often highlight the authenticity of Johnston's prose and his ability to capture the specific cultural atmosphere of mid-twentieth-century Melbourne. The novel is frequently analyzed for its balanced portrayal of the two brothers, neither of whom is presented as entirely virtuous or villainous. It remains a significant point of reference for discussions regarding the moral costs of success and the enduring nature of familial bonds in a rapidly modernizing society.